\Sta*lac"tite\, n.; pl. {Stalactites}. [Gr. ? oozing
out in drops, dropping, fr. ? to drop: cf. F. stalactite.]
(Geol.)
(a) A pendent cone or cylinder of calcium carbonate
    resembling an icicle in form and mode of attachment.
    Stalactites are found depending from the roof or sides of
    caverns, and are produced by deposition from waters which
    have percolated through, and partially dissolved, the
    overlying limestone rocks.
(b) In an extended sense, any mineral or rock of similar form
    and origin; as, a stalactite of lava.